Letter: Tri-Cities completely decoupled from U.S. economy

Initiated in 1943, Hanford’s conclusion is projected for 2060 (117 years!). $115 billion estimated for completion. No Tri-Cities community member can point to Hanford as an icon of efficiency.

During the 2008-09 economic contraction, the Tri-Cities felt no ill effects due to Hanford/PNNL and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Tri-Cities is completely decoupled from the U.S. economy as a whole. If you are not employed by a government entity, you likely farm, work construction or for minimum wage (“tourism jobs”).

The administration’s budget proposed reductions of 19.2 percent at Hanford (700 jobs) in return for reestablishing the necessary Yucca Mountain Project. PNNL would have been reduced by 34.7 percent (1,100 jobs). Remember 1995-96 or prior Hanford hiccups? Housing prices nose-dived, while sales/construction virtually ceased.

What if that occurs again? Local governments will enact “banked” property tax levies, as new construction will no longer cover uncontrolled expenses. As assessed valuation decreases, tax rates will increase in order to collect the aggregate dollars for levies and bonds. Will we need additional schools as families leave the area for jobs where the economy is growing?

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” George Santayana.

This story was originally published July 24, 2017 at 2:10 PM with the headline "Letter: Tri-Cities completely decoupled from U.S. economy."